Sponsored by
209 Multimedia, the Premier Media Company in the 209 is pleased to produce the official program, highlighting the Biggest Summer Event in the Valley.
Graffiti Summer 2024
Don’t miss out, secure your space today as space is limited.
A special publication printed and distributed for this special event. Visitor events are planned through the summer. The program will feature a schedule of events taking place in addition to some wonderful back stories.
The Special Publication will be read by over 109,000 print readers and over 400,000 online visitors. Programs will also be distributed to visitors at events.
Advertising deadline: May 6, 2024 Publication Date: May 29, 2024
A Safe Place To Get Online
Our computer lab recently received funding from Antone E. and Marie F. Raymus Foundation installing 22 online computers. The computers are available for job searches, homework, gaming and skill training. Youth can access learning games and do research needed for their schoolwork and learn fun evolving IT work with coding for kids, digital art and so much more. We partner with other community groups like Bay Valley Tech to help individuals learn more in the ever-changing world of IT.
Our computer lab is supervised and computers are equipped with firewalls and software which keep the users from accidentally accessing inappropriate sites.
Many of our participants don’t have access to WiFi at home, and our lab offers them the opportunity to safely navigate the web while they learn.
Basic Computer and other structured classes/training available Monday –Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
COMPUTER LAB
Our Computer Lab helps children develop their typing, basic computer skills and research for homework.
A software grant from Target has assisted in teaching financial literacy, digital responsibility, science, technology and math. The funding of this program costs $26,060
Dear Red Shield After-School Program Staff, I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible support and care you have provided to my son and our family through the Red Shield After-School Program. Your dedication and commitment have truly made a profound difference in our lives, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate all that you do.
From the moment my son first walked through your doors at the age of six, he found not just an after-school program, but a second home filled with love, support, and understanding. As a parent, witnessing the ups and downs of my child’s mental health journey has been challenging, but knowing that he has had the unwavering support of your staff has been an immense source of comfort and relief.
Your team has gone above and beyond, not only assisting with homework but also providing invaluable support during difficult times. The bonds that have been formed between my son and your staff are truly remarkable and go beyond the typical expectations of an after-school program.
During the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, your willingness to open your doors and provide a safe haven for children, including those learning remotely, was nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the disruptions to our daily lives, you ensured that my son stayed on track academically and emotionally, stepping in whenever needed to offer guidance and encouragement.
Moreover, the after-school program has been a lifeline for our family, allowing me to maintain my work schedule and support my family financially. Without your program, I would have faced the difficult choice of reducing my work hours and sacrificing our income.
What sets the Red Shield After-School Program apart is not just its focus on academics, but its holistic approach to supporting children and families. From providing emotional support to organizing enriching activities and exciting field trips, you create a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, seen, valued, and welcome.
I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the additional resources you provide, such as the food pantry for families in need and the thoughtful gifts given to children to start the school year off well. These gestures of kindness not only alleviate financial burdens but also demonstrate your genuine care and concern for the well-being of each family in your program.
The impact of your program extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the lives of children and families in profound ways. For that, we are eternally grateful.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your unwavering dedication, compassion, and support. You are true heroes, and we are incredibly fortunate to have you in our lives.
With sincere appreciation, A Red Shield Parent
The After School Homework Center
The Red Shield’s After-School program is a wonderful place for elementary aged children in our community to get support, primarily in academics. Although, we strive to lend a hand to kids and families in other areas of their lives to make a difference.
The program starts off with a light snack right after-school at 2:30 p.m., followed by an hour of homework time, which begins at 3:15 p.m., Monday through Thursday. During this hour, a lot happens. Kids who have homework are offered assistance with their assignments. Those who don’t have homework are encouraged to engage in other academic activities that we provide daily, such as reading and worksheets, which tie-in with our engaging weekly themes.
Kids earn points for all the work they do, they also earn points for demonstrating progress reports, report cards, or awards from school. This helps our staff pinpoint areas in which the students struggle while simultaneously supporting neighboring schools and teachers in their mission to educate children. The points are then spent on prizes here at the Red Shield, this is one of the best ways we keep kids motivated.
Once homework time ends, the kids are offered a delicious, nutricious meal and they are free to explore the open areas of the center such as the gym or computer lab until we re-open the library/class-
room. We re-open the classroom at 5:30 p.m. to offer the children an opportunity to engage in STEAM activites which also connect with the weekly theme. This activity is also available Mondays through Thursdays.
However, on Fun Fridays, we strive to switch things up. Each week we offer a variety of interesting, enjoyable activities that include games, cooking skills, movies, events, STEAM activites, and field trips. These activities are also based on the weekly theme to further enhance learning and make the experience more
memorable for the children.
We offer this outstanding program with the expectation that we will see both mental and academic growth in the children. We also believe that through the myriad of activities the kids are exopsed to, they will begin to find themselves and learn what inspires them. We believe this can lead the children of our neighborhood to find their purpose and one day lead healthy and happy lives as they do their part on this planet while having sound minds, positive character, and full hearts.
Red Shield After School Homework Center - Making a Difference
BY BERENICE ORTEGA
The Red Shield provides an after school homework center for students. The program started in 2006 after the Red Shield saw a need for homework assistance for the kids that attended the local schools.
The after school program is open to all youth, but those who frequent the program the most come from local schools in our area like Bret Harte,
Shackleford, and Fairview and Tuolumne.
The Red Shield serves anywhere between an average of 15-24 students daily in the homework program and average about 200 students a year.
The program has advanced from only providing homework assistance to providing computer education, STEAM activities, themed weekly education activities, snacks, age-
appropriate projects, games, field trips and educational hour.
We try hard to work with our local feeder school. The schools have seen the positive impact that the Red Shield has had on their students and encouraged families to explore other services beyond the homework program.
“They are a gold nugget for this community,” said Shackl-
AFTER SCHOOL HOMEWORK & LITERACY PROGRAM
eford Principal Sue McHann. “We are grateful to have staff and volunteers that work alongside these students every afternoon to help them learn and excel in school.”
The after school homework center runs between 3:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday- Friday. Volunteers are always in need and welcomed, especially in our homework hour of 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Many of our children have no resources at home to help them to learn and complete their homework. Our staff and volunteers work with them every afternoon to help them learn and excel at school in our homework and literary assistance program. Funding for this program costs $182,500.
Red Shield’s Teen Program A Safe Haven Steven Derby Scholarship
The Salvation Army Red Shield Modesto has done an amazing job at blessing everyone that comes to experience any of their programs. The Teen program gives teens the opportunities, the experiences, and the help they need in order to grow, strive, and become better people. The mission of the Teen program is designed to assist students with all aspects of their academic work, give them opportunities to experience working, and to assist them in making the right decisions in life, all while having fun.
The Teen program offers a Monday through Friday safe haven filled with a variety of activities throughout the week such as arts/crafts, STEM, homework support, gym games, and life advice. On Friday nights, the teen program extends into the evening to provide a safe place with a fun-filled, spiritual-centered night. In addition, the Teen program ties into Sunday school offering spiritual growth and guidance to the teens. Overall, the Teen program provides mental, physical, spiritual, and career-oriented growth for every child that walks through the doors.
TEEN PROGRAM
The character-building programs help teens develop skill-building, goal-setting, leadership development and Christian living. Other activities include music program classes, Sunday school, teen fellowship and youth trips. The funding for this ongoing program costs $132,340.
The Women’s Auxiliary works with The Salvation Army to support their programs and activities in Modesto.
You are invited to join us at 9:00 a.m. on the second Monday of every month, September through May.
For more information, please call 209-522-3209
The Steven Derby Scholarship program was set up by the Derby family after the loss of their son Steven Derby. Steven was a man that was born with disabilities yet never allowed that to hold him back from achieving his goals in life. The inspiration from Steven’s drive in life allowed the Derby family to share that with the youth that come through the Red Shield Center.
Regardless of where the youth come from the Derby’s found that if their son could achieve goals in life so could any youth that wanted to go to college or trade school. The Derby’s put a scholarship together to offer youth the opportunity to receive $500 a semester for four years of attending college or trade school. The scholarship even takes special circumstances into account giving every youth an opportunity to apply. While the pandemic played a huge role in the lives of many young people, we have given out scholarships over the last few years. There are a few that are finishing up the AA and moving on to a CSU. The most recent recipients are
overwhelmingly grateful for the assistance. Some are so humbled to receive continuously the last two years and have even considered declining to give other teens the opportunity to receive.
The Derby family has really blessed young people who felt they didn’t have as many opportunities as other college students. Some shared that it is so competitive to apply for scholarships and they didn’t think they really had a chance.
A few of the current scholars are studying teaching, psychology, sociology, welding and general education.
The Steven Derby Scholarship fund is a big part of our empowering teens to continue education after high school. We are seeing the teens gravitate to continuing to study and getting a degree, certificate, or additional education in fields of interest.
The scholarship is funded by donations directed to the Steven Derby Scholarship. For more information please email: maria.arellano@usw.salvationarmy.org
We are proud to support the Red Shield Center. Every year, G3 and our employees join forces to make a real difference in the community. Contributing to over 50 charities locally and nationwide, we donate our time and financial support in a variety of ways. As a family-owned company, we know the family and community go hand-in-hand.
Boxer Jorge Julian Barajas Villalobos
Jorge was introduced to The Salvation Army Red Shield Center when he was in the 7th grade. He had come to the Teen Swim nights and enjoyed the pool periodically but hadn’t put much thought into what else The Shield had to offer. Then the pandemic hit.
During the pandemic, Jorge started attending the swim nights regularly. One of the lifeguards encouraged him to give other programs at The Shield a try and when some COVID restrictions were lifted and The Shield was able to offer boxing outdoors, Jorge came a few times to check it out. That’s when he met the boxing coach, Juan. Boxing piqued Jorge’s interest but his mom reminded him what a commitment it would be and he wasn’t sure he was up for it.
Jorge remembers watching other serious boxers from The Shield. He wanted to be like them. Outside of The Shield, Jorge was hanging with a group of kids that were making some bad choices. He knew he needed to change his path. Coach Juan wanted to get Jorge invested in boxing, and in making good choices. One day Coach Juan allowed Jorge to spar with another experienced boxer. This boxer gave Jorge a little taste of competition and from that moment on Jorge wanted Coach Juan to invest in him too.
Though the classes were limited in their meetings, Coach Juan kept his commitment to the boxers. He continually checked in with them and offered encouragement. Mid-pandemic is when Jorge became totally committed with his mom’s support. The workouts were intense. They included jumping rope and running daily at 6 a.m. “He gave us workouts and motivation speeches. I remember keeping busy running daily and showdown boxing,” Jorge said. “Sometime the routines were so repetitive and boring. I wanted to learn all the cool moves you see boxers do on tv,” Jorge said. “Coach Juan said that is show biz not real boxing.” Coach Juan teaches basics and routine until mastery. He teaches his boxers to always be humble; never look down on your enemy as you don’t know what they are capable of.
Through committing to boxing and avid
training, Jorge was able to lose over 30 pounds. Shortly after losing the weight he fractured his arm, but it did not stop him. Coach Juan continued to motivate him and “he would check in to see how I am doing.” Jorge said. “I would tell him to give me workouts with my one arm.” Jorge did not give up and Coach Juan did not give up on him.
After a few weeks of healing Jorge had his first amateur fight. He was confident he had won until his opponent was announced as the winner. He was devastated. His mom consoled him and assured him everything would be okay. Coach Juan saw his frustration and reminded him of his worth. Jorge was grateful he had his mom and his coach in his corner, motivating him and cheering him on.
Three months later, Jorge unexpectedly lost his mom.
He didn’t know how to grieve or who to find comfort in. He had lost his best friend. The two most important people in his life during this difficult time were his Spanish
teacher, Ms. Cardenas, and Coach Juan. They would check in all the time and help him to work through being able to talk about his mom. As his dad learned to work through his grief in his own way, these two were there to help Jorge. There were moments of anger, despair, thoughts of death. “Coach Juan was always there, he hugged me at my mom’s funeral and I broke down crying in tears,” Jorge recalled. “My mom told me never to cry in public but Coach Juan’s hug was comfort. He told me it’s okay to cry.”
Though Jorge had faced many adversities over the past few years, Coach Juan was the one constant that never gave up on him. He continued to support and train Jorge. He saw his true potential and he was proud of the boxer, and young man, he was becoming. He also helped foster Jorge’s relationship with the Lord. “Coach Juan helped me find a relationship with God that I wasn’t totally sure I knew or wanted to know.” They prayed together before matches and
in his journey to find God, Jorge learned a scripture that he recites at each of his matches; ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’
Jorge’s dad continues to work to provide for and support his son the best he can. Jorge got his very first job and still boxes for the Salvation Army Red Shield. Coach Juan continues to coach and mentor him. He has taught him that it is okay to lose because that is how you begin earning wins. Jorge is motivated to keep learning and remembers to always be humble. His goal is to go pro in boxing. Ultimately, he wants to go to Golden Gloves and aspires to be a world champ.
The past five years have been a tumultuous journey for Jorge. Between hanging with the wrong crowd, finding The Shield, learning the sport of boxing, overcoming multiple injuries, and losing his mom, Jorge acknowledges that The Red Shield saved his life. “With the teachers, coaches and mentors that have come in my life I have found a way to keep going.”
A Place To Play And Create
BY MARIA ARELLANO
The Red Shield Game Room has always been a favorite spot for kids to just be kids.
Over the years as adults return to the Red Shield with their children it’s common to hear them say, ‘I remember when the entrance to the Red Shield was in the game room.’ Over the last 10 years we have been continuously remodeling and upgrading our Red Shield.
At the Red Shield we have recently moved our game room to a more kid friendly space. This is where we are undergoing our new look to move our 1980s game room to a current video-themed
game room. A space where arts and crafts can get messy without damaging carpet. A place where kids can have a friendly tournament of Mario Kart or E-sports.
A place where kids can gather and play board game or BINGO with the Activities Coordinator, Tammy.
The game room is a fun, inviting space where kids can be kids and interact with their friends or make new friends. In the game room you will find our staff member Tammy, who loves working with the kids daily. She is always ready for them and remembers them on their birthdays, even newbies get to know Tammy quickly. Our new game room has online gaming, family-friendly movies, arts and crafts
and arcade games like Foosball.
You can find this room as a drop-in center that is a cool down room in the midst of summer. Kids like the game room as it is noisy but relaxing. You can just sit and relax or join in any activity being offered. The game room is open daily after homework program until 6:30 p.m.
The new game room could use some love and adopting. You can donate your time, talent, or treasures by helping us ramp up the room. We are going with the modern E-Sport or Gaming theme.
Today’s youth love gaming and crafting. In our game room we want to make the space inviting to what youth love.
GAME ROOM
The game room renovation will include more online gaming options, as well as some classics like Foosball, air hockey and board games. There’s also family-friendly movies and arts and crafts projects. The funding needed for the game room is $26,478.
FAMILY FUN NIGHT MUSIC PROGRAM
Family Fun Night is on the last Friday of each month. Every month is a different theme such as Nerf War, Dodgeball competition, Game Night, Flick and Float, Carnival Night etc... these events are free to families and include free food, snacks, music and prizes. These Family Fun Nights are meant to create beautiful memories, help families bond and de-stress. We also want to provide an opportunity to share a devotion with them and a time of prayer, being able to come alongside each family and provide support and a save place for them to come and have fun. We understand times are tough and the cost of living has gone up. It can be very expensive for families to go out so, we provide a safe environment with plenty of entertainment and at no cost.
Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield started a music program for kids ages 7-18 years old. They teach a variety of instruments and dance. From Ukulele to Folklorico these kids have a space to learn either a new instrument or a new cultural dance. Each kid gets to explore a new skill or hidden talent they didn’t even know they had.
Each class and student gets to go on to a Divisional competition to present the piece they have been working on.
The
Senior Program Serving Seniors Brings Anna Zamora Full Circle at Red Shield
The Senior Program is a rededication to a service well needed in the community of South Modesto. It’s been 15 years since the Red Shield could offer such an amazing program to our community of 55 years and older. Applying for funding with Sutter Health has been such a blessing to the community. Seniors are able to attend the day program at no cost. This program offers active living, healthy eating, transportation service to medical appointments and activities that stimulate the mind.
The Sutter Health funding allows the Red Shield to be a hub for senior citizens. The Red Shield has been able to open and operate an amazing Senior Drop In Center to individuals 55 years and older. Our Senior Program staff are dedicated to providing amazing activities, fitness classes, field trips and guest speakers to help seniors with resources they might not otherwise have or know where to go. While most seniors live on limited resources the Red Shield Senior program has incorporated a healthy lifestyle with healthy meals for breakfast and lunch as well as a commodity food box monthly. At the Red Shield Senior Drop In Center a senior can come in for coffee, make new friends, read a book, be inspired or blessed with spiritual opportunities, have breakfast, lunch, field trips and exercise (on their own or in group fitness). The Senior Program has a designated Senior Coordinator who leads the program Monday – Friday from 8am-1pm. A designated driver has been assigned to assist those that need transportation assistance by picking up and dropping off seniors for the program. Assistance for medical appointments is available depending on schedule.
The program opened its doors in Octo-
ber 2022 and is actively flourishing. The program is bilingual and seniors have shared how much they are being blessed. For some seniors the program has assisted their health with mobility in being able to brush their own hair again from the fitness classes on muscle strengthening. For others it is a safe place to walk and recover from surgery or even to lower their blood sugars by walking in the fitness room or in the gymnasium. Others enjoy the program for its companionship by allowing them to not be isolated at home, and reducing depression by being involved and around people.
Through this program some have done things for the first time like coloring (something an 80-year-old man would never have experienced) planting seeds and seeing the growth of their nurturing/ caring. For others the resources for medical equipment/insurances available, and for some it’s the place they find they can have a meal twice a day without having to worry about the finances of it.
There are so many good things happening, and the passion and love for the program from the Red Shield staff to the seniors themselves has allowed us to incorporate them into our family fun nights where they not only interact with senior but are integrated with our community families and bringing joy and smiles to those who were once lonely and homebound.
The motivation of the program is contagious and the seniors have proven this as they celebrated their first year of Senior Program with fundraising, exercising and planning a trip to Disneyland, the happiest place on earth! The seniors prepared themselves physically, mentally and took a trip of a lifetime last November.
BY KIARA ARMENDARIZ
Anna Zamora began attending the Red Shield Center at six years old along with her sister and cousins. She was introduced to many of the programs included Sunbeams with long time member Terry Humphres, the after-school program with our current Program Director Fira Rodriguez, and Teen Nights with other leaders.
Growing up at the center opened doors to many employment opportunities for Anna as well. After working at The Salvation Army’s Camp Redwood Glen for a few summers she received her lifeguard certification and applied to work at the Red Shield pool where she eventually became the lead lifeguard in the summer months. During this time she led a water fitness class for senior citizens where some of the same women who had been her leaders and mentors as a child had become her students! Through them she heard about the senior program opening at the Red Shield
in 2022, and soon applied as the Senior Coordinator.
In the senior program she supports and encourages attendees through daily activities including crafts, workouts, and fellowship time. Her attention and intentionality throughout the program reflect the love and care she has for her seniors and others she encounters at the center. Her journey as a youth at the Red Shield into an adult, under the mentorship of many of the seniors who surround her today, brings her position into a full circle experience that allows her to return the favor and be grateful for all that she has learned.
“Red Shield provides a safe space for all to come to get away from negative influences and environments and to create a sense of family, community, and home,” Anna said.
Anna’s role at The Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield has indeed created this home for many, and we are blessed to have her as a part of our team.
A Place To Build Physical Strength And Self-Confidence
Children, teens and young adults who are enrolled in the boxing program are taught physical, mental and spiritual endurance and strength. The experienced coaches are passionate about training young people in the “sweet science” at all levels and abilities, and providing a safe, structured and supervised athletic experience.
Juan Barrera runs Red Shield’s boxing program and this will mark his 16th season coaching. Like many of the kids at the Red Shield, Barrera started learning how to box at a young age.
“My dad was a fighter and started showing me boxing moves when I was 4-years-old, but I didn’t start [organized] boxing until I was 15,” said Barrera. He was drawn to the challenging nature of the sport and to the camaraderie of training with other young boxers.
Barrera hung up the gloves at age 20 but couldn’t stay away from the sport for too long. He felt a burning desire to be a mentor and leader to the kids in south Modesto.
“I grew up in the neighborhood at the Red Shield,” he said. “It’s given me
BOXING
structure. The kids are depending on me to show up. I have to set an example, too. It keeps me grounded.”
The benefits of boxing go far beyond the physical, said Barrera.
“It’s not just about boxing,” Barrera said. “It builds their self-esteem and confidence. It’s good for stress. It gives them
discipline.”
“It’s easy to stay home and play video games and watch TV,” he added. “These kids choose to come to the gym and work out. We want to see them become champions in life.”
The boxing program is open for boys and girls 6 to 18 years old.
A Place To Grow Healthy
BY ANGELINA MARTIN
The fitness room at The Salvation Army Red Shield Center provides community members and students alike with the opportunity to focus on their fitness and physical health while in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
The fitness center has first-class cardio and weight training equipment, like incline treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent bikes and a variety of cable machines.
After school, the center’s fitness room is open to kids 16 and older, or those younger than 16 can enter with an adult.
A lot of kids utilize the weight room just to get exercise in, Red Shield Center Director Maria Arellano said, or they join programs, like boxing, that take place in the fitness room.
Before students arrive in the afternoon, adult community members also utilize the fitness room, which offers Zumba and bootcamp classes as well.
Individuals are able to purchase fitness class passes via the Red Shield website, and attend courses led by instructors.
The facilities hours between 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
A safe place to swim
The Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield Community Center — 1649 Las Vegas St., Modesto — will open its pool to the public beginning June 3 for the summer swim season.
The pool will be made available a few weeks earlier for schools that want to schedule field trips during the later part of May.
Each summer The Red Shield provides a bevy of activities and services focusing on safety, conditioning and just plain fun, according to Glafira Rodriguez, program manager at the Salvation Army.
“As soon as it warms up families are asking if we can open the pool,” said Rodriguez, who pointed out that the facility always has certified lifeguards on duty. “Our pool gets very full. There have been times when we had to stop people from coming in and try to get them to attend the next session because our limit is 160. We’ve hit that a couple of times when it gets really, really hot.”
Swim lessons will begin on June 3, the first of four sessions during the season.
Beginning June 3 and lasting through June 13 (Monday through Thursday), you can choose the 11:30 a.m. sessions or the 6 p.m. sessions.
More classes will be offered June 1727; July 8-18; and July 22-Aug. 1.
During the June 17-27 session, a Baby-and-Me class will be offered, from noon to 12:30 p.m.
If you already know how to swim and are just looking to stay in shape, The Red Shield offers fitness classes for those 12 and older. Fitness classes will be offered from 10 a.m. to 11, Monday through Friday, beginning June 3 and concluding June 27. For members 55 and older, the cost is free, and lunch and breakfast will be provided.
A second month of fitness classes will be offered July 1-25.
Also, a junior lifeguard class is available from July 1-25, Monday through Friday, from 6:30 to 7 p.m.
Also, during the month of June, Monday through Thursday, swimmers 10-16 years old can sign up online or at the facility for the swim team.
“Since it’s an introductory level, we don’t compete against other teams,” said Rodriguez. “It’s more like conditioning and strengthening and an intro to the swim team.”
Of course, there’s also the ever-popular public swim sessions each Monday through Friday for the entire season. For each two-hour session — 1 to 3 p.m. or 3:30 to 5:30 — it’s $2 for non-members and free to members.
Also, The Red Shield will be hosting Family Fun Nights once a month, featuring a free dinner, games and pool party. Dates for Family Fun Nights are May 31, June 28, July 19 and Aug. 30. The two-hour fun sessions get underway at 6 p.m.
AQUATICS
A full-size swimming pool experiences a lot of activity during the summer months for recreational swimming, aquatic fitness, lifesaving classes, family fun night swims, team swim and swimming lessons. $260,202
Ricky Reynoso Is Motivating A New Generation In The Gym
Ricky Reynoso came to the Red Shield in 2014 as a teenager looking for a place to play basketball. He was instantly hooked. It became a safe space for him after school.
Through the years he became involved in many different programs, but his fondest memories came from his time in the Teen Program. Many of the teens that he grew up with through the program became like family, and they still keep in contact to this day.
Through the Teen Program he was given the opportunity to attend Salvation Army Camps, Retreats, and even seek employment through the organization. He has been employed through our summer camp in Scotts Valley, which allowed him to gain work experience as a teenager and young adult. When he returned home to Modesto his experiences motivated him to pay it forward and be a part of creating the same safe space that he benefitted from.
Eventually that motivation led him back to the Red Shield as the Gym Coordinator. The perfect position for Ricky as someone who also has a passion for sports. He cherishes the position that he is in and the legacy that he is continuing.
As Ricky explains it, “We are pouring into the lives of the kids just like those who did before me. We are creating and expanding our sports, community, and commodity programs, and continuing to pursue what Red Shield is meant to be.”
The programs that Ricky participated in, and hundreds of children do today, are important to their well-being, both socially, physically, and emotionally.
When asked the question of why the Red Shield is so important Ricky responded, “The Red Shield is important because it transforms lives, gives a sense of direction, security, enhances lives, and keeps our children out of trouble.”
Ricky continues to be a vital part of the Red Shield family, and we are grateful for the passion and enthusiasm he brings each day.
A Place To Learn About Teamwork
The gymnasium serves as an integral part of the Red Shield Center by hosting an array of recreational activities, community gatherings and social events over the years.
The wide, open space serves as the perfect spot for Red Shield to offer sports and activities to students as well as the general public, providing a low-cost alternative for adults and families who want to lead a healthy lifestyle.
“The kids here feel safe — they have a space where they’re being challenged and empowered, in a place where they can just be kids,” said Operations Manager Maria Arellano. “They can utilize it, have fun and be active.”
Twice a year kids and teens can register for a six-week basketball clinic where they receive basic instruction in basketball. Teenagers can play pickup basketball from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drop-in basketball for adults is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Children use a portion of the gym from
5p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Times can also vary. Activities include indoor soccer, kickball, dodgeball, volleyball and relay races.
The space is also used for a monthly Family Fun Night, an event on the last Friday of the month when families can come together for a time of fun and laughter. Some of the activities provided are Nerf wars, family carnivals, and movie nights. Mass meals are served to community members on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
One of Red Shield’s goals is to provide a supervised, friendly and healthy alternative to students spending days after school on the streets, she added.
“A place like this is important because what the streets are offering right now is the total opposite,” Arellano said. “Here, they can get away from that and don’t have to worry about the pressure of somebody trying to peer pressure them into doing something they don’t want to do.
GYM & RECREATIONAL PROGRAM
The full-size modern gymnasium provides basketball and other recreational activities for children, teens and adults. With an emphasis put on gang intervention and prevention, the gym is a place where many high-school aged kids and young adults spend many hours. The gym uses include basketball, pickle ball, volleyball, indoor soccer, kick ball and special event. The funding need for these programs costs $91,680.
A Place To Play Ball At Red Shield
BY DALE BUTLER
Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield Center's Baseball and Softball program has been a popular draw for school-aged children for decades.
"It's one of Red Shield's two longstanding programs," said Maria Arellano, operations manager/coordinator. "I love that it's generational. So many people come back to our program with their kids and grandkids. Hearing the stories of the past is really amazing. It blows my mind. They have so many fond memories of playing here. This program impacts and saves lives."
More than 110 boys and girls, aged 3-15, are participating this spring.
Players learn about teamwork and sportsmanship.
"Youth need structured sports," Arellano said. "It helps build character, social skills and friendships."
"I had four kids go through the program," she added. "My son (Lorenzo) played baseball. He umpired. Now, he's 27. He's a dad. He's coaching two teams. I'm training him to coordinate (baseball/softball). He's giving back to the program."
Cost per player is $120.
Each participant receives a full uniform.
Red Shield eliminates or reduces registration fees for low-income families.
"No kid is turned away," Arellano said. "They can qualify for partial or full scholarships."
The Red Shield Center sponsors a total of eight teams that compete in the Stanislaus County recreational league, including five baseball (14-and-under, 12&under, 10&under, 8&under and 6&under, and three softball (14-and-under, 10&under, 8&under and 6&under).
Red Shield competes against Big Valley, Hart Ransom, Hughson, Modesto Christian, Our Lady of Fatima, Patterson, St. Stanislaus, Shiloh-Paradise, Waterford and Westport.
The 2024 season started in April and will end in June.
Teams play games twice a week.
Home games are staged on site.
"Renovation and expansion has been parent-driven," Arellano said.
About 300 people attended Opening Day Baseball and Softball Festivities on March 23.
Players were introduced during a parade.
"The kids are announced by number and name," Arellano said. "It's a great family day."
BASEBALL & SOFTBALL
Our Baseball/Softball Program helps young people develop basic baseball skills, and teaches teamwork, and sportsmanship. This year, we have 10 teams that include T-ball, softball and baseball teams. $80,000.
Fletcher Dentistry
Daniel Valencia: From Red Shield Guest To Kidz Day Volunteer Joan Fisher Answers The Call To Serve
Daniel Valencia came to Red Shield when he was in 6th grade. He came to go swimming and found other programs like the gym and playing in the game room.
Daniel said his parents worked so the Red Shield became his second home, a safe place where he could hang out and play and enjoy snacks.
Daniel shares that his options were limited in the neighborhood and the Red Shield offered a positive safe place.
When he started coming to the Red Shield as a kid, he remembered how affordable it was. Fifty cents got you in to play in the game room and swim.
The after-school program caught his interest as it was a time given to help him with homework. Being that his parents worked, and the Red Shield was the place he went after school, it was a benefit to him. He was able to get help and have a place to get homework finished.
Red Shield helped him and his
older sibling out so much socially. It gave them the opportunity to stay engaged and out of trouble. It was a place that allowed Daniel and his sibling to make friends and learn social skills on meeting new people, teamwork, playing with others and learning about other people.
Daniel shares that he wants to give back to the Red Shield via Kidz Day because he knows it is true when they say it takes a village to raise a child.
The Red Shield staff has a huge impact on raising the kids that come there. It is life changing from, basketball, homework help, swimming, playing in the game room or just coming for a meal. The Red Shield is there to assist especially low-income families, we get access to programs/ activities that for many families are only available if you have money.
Daniel shared that he wants to pay it forward, all that the Red Shield did for him as a kid, now he can give back.
BY SABRA STAFFORD
When Joan Fisher decided to retire after 42 years in the banking industry, she made sure to tell everyone she could that she was taking a year off from all responsibilities and was going to settle into her retirement.
Almost a year to the date, Jennifer Webber, a long-time volunteer with Kidz Day, called up Fisher and made her a proposal.
“She asked if I would be willing to help with Kidz Day for the Red Shield,” Fisher said. “I didn’t even know the Red Shield existed at that time. Once I had gone out there and saw all the good work they were doing with the kids, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
That call set into motion decades of volunteer work by Fisher on behalf of the Salvation Army and the Red Shield. She has served on
the board for 20 years, made calls for donations, tutored children, sold the Kidz Day papers, helped with the official tally and many other tasks.
“I was very impressed by all the work they were doing out there and they had a large offering of activities for the kids,” Fisher said. “Working with the kids has been really rewarding.”
Fisher recalled one fourthgrade student she worked with that had ADHD.
“Everyday, as soon as it was time for snacks, he would shoot off like a light to the snack bar,” Fisher
said. “One day, he was in sixth grade by this point, and it was time for snacks and he didn’t get up right away. I asked him about it and he said he wanted to finish his homework first. I asked if he wanted me to stay and he said, ‘will you?’ and looked at me with his big brown eyes. Of course, I said I would stay.”
Over the years the volunteer work Fisher undertakes has changed, but the passion has not waned. She also doesn’t shy away from some of the harder tasks, like calling and seeking donations.
“If you make 10 calls or even 20 and you get that one person who will make a donation then it’s worth all the other noes,” Fisher said.
And after all this time,” Fisher is very grateful she took that call to get involved.
“It has been a very rewarding 20 years,” Fisher said.
■ SUNDAY SCHOOL
Classes offered every Sunday morning to all ages from kids to adults. Childcare available for 5 years and under.
■ WORSHIP SERVICE
Contemporary family worship is offered to anyone looking for a church home. Service begins at 11:00a.m. on Sundays. We are a “come as you are” church and everyone is welcome to visit us or join our church family.
■ TROOPS
• The Salvation Army Scouting programs are offered on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. Includes children 4 years old through 12th grade.
• Moonbeams for boys and girls ages 4-5.
• Sunbeams for girls 1st grade through 5th grade.
• Girl Guards for girls 6th grade through 12th grade.
• Adventure Corps Explorers for boys 1st grade through 4rd grade.
• Adventure Corps Rangers for boys 5th grade through 8th grade.
Troops meet with leaders weekly to work on projects and
to earn badges. Troops attend annual rallies in uniforms with sashes, ready to recite pledges. Children in troops also are eligible to attend summer camp for a week in the Santa Cruz Mountains at the Salvation Army’s overnight camp.
■ TEEN PROGRAM
A designated room is open from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for teens (7th grade through 12th grade) targeted to offer teens their own space to do homework, fellowship, play games, have daily topic discussion groups, and to be encouraged by the Youth Leader.
The Teen Room also has an outreach program on Friday evenings from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. offering teens a positive alternative option on Friday nights where teen crime rate is high. Teen night offers food, fun and fellowship. Weekly activities and outings are scheduled.
■ BIBLE STUDY
The Red Shield offers Bible Study classes for all age. Bible scholars and novices welcomed for topical or book-based studies.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE RED SHIELD A PLACE TO WORSHIP AND GROW IN FAITH
There are a variety of ways that an individual, family or group can get involved and volunteer to assist the Red Shield. Whether you can help one day, every day, or once a year, we would love to give you an opportunity to invest in the lives of children at our center. It’s also a great way to fulfill community service obligations for your school. we may have just the job for you.
SOME OF OUR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
■ After School Homework - Helping elementary school aged children learn, read and complete their homework and assignments on time; assisting with computer literacy and safety; using your skills and talents to teach eager learners.
■ Food Service - Assist with the preparation and serving of a comprehensive, nutritional snack for the children of the Red Shield every weekday.
■ Sports - Leading or assiting in teaching sports skills and fundamentals to children and teens in baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, futsal, boxing, fitness and other group sports and recreational activities. We are also always looking for experts to come by and teach new sports skills.
■ Snack Bar - help us run our snack bar on our sports field. Volunteers assist with the preparation of drinks and snacks for our guests. We can also use food donations to sell in the snack bar.
CONTACT INFORMATION
■ WOMEN’S MINISTRIES—HOME LEAGUE
Weekly women’s program with a fourfold purpose — education, worship, fellowship and service. Ladies meet every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Quarterly calendars are available. Great opportunity for women to get out and meet other ladies.
SEASONAL PROGRAMS
■ VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
A weeklong, themed, Biblical outreach for children. VBS is held twice per year, during Spring Break, and in the summer. The program is free and includes lunch, learning activities, recreation and swimming.
■ SUMMER OVERNIGHT CAMP
The Salvation Army offers a variety of overnight camps. These camps allow the child to spend a week in the Santa Cruz Mountains at The Salvation Army Redwood Glen Camp with highly trained camp staff. Prices vary; please call to inquire about overnight camp availability.
■ Aquatics - We need certified lifeguards who are willing to volunteer during our swim season. Qualified instructors for our swim lessons, junior lifeguard program and our informal swim team are also needed.
■ Program Instructors - take an opportunity to introduce children to a talent or skill that you possess. Perhaps it’s something in sports, martial arts, technology, education, or a hobby. There are many options that would benefit the children at the Red Shield.
SPECIAL CAMPAIGNS
■ Kidz Day - Celebrate our annual fundraising campaign by selling our Kidz Day newspaper on a busy corner, or have your business adopt a corner and make it a fun group project. There’s also the option of purchasing advertising space in the newspaper or becoming a corporate sponsor. Kidz Day is the Red Shield’s biggest annual fundraiser and proceeds go directly to helping us serve children in Modesto.
■ Christmas - Get in the Christmas spirit by being one of our volunteer bell ringers at one of our kettle sites. Bring your family or co-workers and make it a party. it’s fun and helps The Salvation Army in Modesto tremendously. There also are opportunities to adopt a child and help a disadvantaged youth have a Christmas to remember.
Tim Hensley Owner
RED SHIELD FUNDING INFORMATION
Fund the entire Red Shield for 1 year . . . $2,088,419
This includes ALL expenses- including programs, building costs, vehicles, utilities, insurance, security, etc. The Red Shield Corps Community Center is a 32,000 square foot building located in south Modesto, near Hatch Road and Crows Landing Road. This neighborhood is one of the poorest areas in the city.
After
School Homework & Literacy Program . . $182,500
Many of our children have no resources at home to help them to learn and complete their homework. Our staff and volunteers work with them every afternoon to help them to learn and excel at school in our homework and literacy assistance program. At the Red Shield we provide free wifi that is crucial today for their Chromebook homework as well as providing educational re-enforcement packets for youth to work on when they have no homework. Our program has a library full of books encouraging youth to read daily.
Weekly Youth Programs .
. $23,000
Our Character-building programs help children to develop skillbuilding, goal-setting, leadership development and Christian living. Other activities include Sunday School, Teen Fellowship, and Youth Trips.
Summer Resident Camp .
. $23,700
Our summer camping program offers children the opportunity to attend an overnight summer camp at a low cost to their families. This offers them a week-long opportunity at The Salvation Army’s overnight camp in the Santa Cruz mountains. This season 2024 we would like to send 75 kids to camp for a one-week session.
A full-size swimming pool experiences a lot of activity during the summer months for recreational swimming and swimming lessons. How can you support the aquatic program?
Sponsor a child to swim all summer for $64; one set of swim lessons for $40 ($240 all summer); water fitness for the summer $20; train a lifeguard for $300. Donate supplies: Pool noodles, kick boards, goggles, swim attire, pool dive toys, pool volley balls or basketballs, hair ties, sandals, beach towels, or locker locks. Make a donation toward chemical supplies, which cost $23,000 a summer.
Boxing
$133,743
Our Boxing Program has knowledgeable coaches providing instruction in our award-winning Boxing Program. They are working with children, teens and young adults, helping them to develop basic boxing skills, sportsmanship and physical fitness. The Boxing Program is always looking for knowledgeable boxing volunteer coaches to help the youth grow in their skills as they develop a love for the sport. Sponsor a child to box for $20 month or $240 year; for amateur boxing it’s $465 a year and includes local tournaments; tournament sponsorships are $9,500. Donations of items needed for boxing include: hand wraps, mouth guards, jump ropes, turnbuckle, punching bags, body suits, double end bag, wrecking ball heavy bag, uniform, padding for ring, canvas ring cover, heavy bag stand, and a ring.
Baseball/Softball
$80,000
Our Baseball/Softball Program helps young people develop basic baseball skills, and teaches teamwork, and sportsmanship. Over the years our field has expanded and been updated to look and feel like a modern-day baseball field. With our beautiful field and batting cages youth have more access to building on their skills
and teams have more space to practice. Sponsor a child for $120 or a team for $600. Donations of equipment include: baseballs, softballs, belt, socks, batting gloves, face mask, whiffle balls, cleats, gloves, helmets, bats, batting T and a riding lawn mower.
Fitness Programs
$26,478
The Red Shield Fitness Center features state-of-the-art cardio and weight-training equipment. We also offer Zumba and Boot Camp programs for adults.
Gym & Recreational Program All Ages .
$91,680
Our full-size, modern gymnasium provides Basketball and other recreational programs for young people with an emphasis on gang intervention and prevention. Many high school aged kids and young adults spend many hours playing in this gym. Volunteer your time by coming down to teach a sport, play a pick up game or coach. Or donate any of the following: basketballs, basketball nets and hoops, indoor soccer balls and nets, kickballs, dodgeballs, volleyballs and sets, hockey sticks and nets.
Game Room
$26,478
The New Game Room features foosball, online gaming, air hockey, crafting and board games. Daily we have structured activities that offer youth to come in and be a kid by playing or crafting. How can you help? Volunteer a day a week or daily with teaching a craft or activity. Come play board games or compete with our tournaments with the kids. Donate craft supplies, board games, switch games, air hockey table, foosball, or a subscription to Disney+.
Computer Lab - Youth & Adults
$26,060
Our Computer Lab helps children develop their typing, learn basic computer skills, and research for homework. Last year, our
computer lab was in full action with the pandemic and need for our WiFi and computer resources. Here we are able to provide financial literacy, digital responsibility, science, technology and math. Volunteer to teach a class digital photography, digital design, coding, typing etc. Or donate software, virus protection, wireless keyboards and mice, and memory cards.
Teen Program
$132,340
The Teen Program is a crucial after school program that offers teenagers 7th grade through high school a safe environment during peak hours of crime. At the Teen Program the youth find a space designated especially for them. Teens have a space to do homework with our wifi and hang out with other teams. Building relationships with others and learning from what another. Teens are mentored and given opportunities to volunteer and learn skills sets. During the summer teens are introduced to The Salvation Army Camp in Scotts Valley for summer employment opportunities. The Teen Room is a safe haven and a place to seek a personal relationship with a spiritual mentor.
Children’s Nutrition Program
$41,400
We provide after-school nutritional snacks and a hot meal to children and teens five days a week. Volunteer once a month, week, day to come help prepare or pass out snack for the children. Donate snack items (no homemade, must be prepackaged).
Building Maintenance Staff
$166,051
Our staff keeps the Red Shield Center looking good and maintains the many building systems. Professional vendors are contracted to perform regular preventative maintenance duties on all HVAC equipment, swimming pool equipment, and the roof, to name a few.
• Apoyo Financiero
• Boost Mobile
• 209Photography
• Carla Evans Realtor
Corner of Hatch & Crows Landing Roads Modesto, CA
• Apoyo Financiero
• Central Valley Soccer
• Boost Mobile
• Carla Evans Realtor
• Crows Landing Road Barber Shop
• Central Valley Soccer
• Cuevas Uniforms
• Control de Peso
• Divinas Nail Designs
• Crows Landing Road Barber Shop
• Dizney Tow
• Donut Queen
• Cuevas Uniforms
• Juanita’s Salon
• La Reina Ice Cream
• InstaCash
• Metro by T-Mobile
• Joanna’s Fashion
• Mi Tierra Super Mercado
• Juanita’s Salon
• Mizz Meches’ Cosmetics
• Perez Appliance
• La Autentica Burrita Marinera Food Truck
• La Reina Ice Cream
• Pizza Guys
• Metro by T-Mobile
• Sara Macias Insurance
• Sounds R Us
• Mi Tierra Super Mercado
• Perez Appliance
• The Hair Studio
• El Charro Western Wear
• Divinas Nail Designs
• Dizney Tow
• Evergreen Shoe Repair
• Donut Queen
• Flowers Mikeila
• El Charro Western Wear
• Gill’s Liquor and More
• Evergreen Shoe Repair
• H&R Block
• Flowers Mikeila
• Health Nutrition
• Gill’s Liquor and More
• InstaCash
• H&R Block
• Joanna’s Fashion
• Torres Auto Diagnostic
• Pizza Guys
• Sara Macias Insurance
• Tannia Solis Insurance
• Sounds R Us
• Crazy Wings food truck
• The Hair Studio
• Torres Auto Diagnostic
• Tacos el Panzon food truck
• Tannia Solis Insurance
• Antojitos el Aguaje food truck
• Taqueria y Cenederia Food Truck
• El Jacalito Taqueria
• Watermill
• Watermill